Federico Valverde Hails Mourinho Impact and Bernardo Silva’s ‘Magic’
There was a relaxed smile on Federico Valverde’s face as he stopped to talk in Budapest. Real Madrid had just seen off Ferencváros 2-1, the captain’s armband had spent the night on the Uruguayan’s sleeve, and Los Blancos’ engine-room leader was happy to hold court on the new era taking shape under José Mourinho.
Valverde’s words carry weight. As one of the senior figures Mourinho is leaning on this pre-season, the midfielder offered the clearest player’s-eye view yet of the Portuguese’s early impact — a warm endorsement of new signing Bernardo Silva, and a pointed refusal to be drawn on Rodri. Speaking to the media at the Groupama Arena, as reported by Madrid Universal, he touched on all three.
Valverde’s verdict on Mourinho
The midfielder admitted the manager had pleasantly surprised him in their first days together, painting a picture of a coach who is demanding but human behind the famous persona.
“I didn’t expect Mourinho to be like this, in the few days I’ve spent with him. Very approachable. In the end, he’s someone who’s there with his personality. Sometimes he’s tough, but I think that’s the way you can improve. I like how he treats us, how he treats me.”
It is the kind of buy-in Mourinho will want from his most influential players as he stamps his ideas on a rebuilt squad. Valverde has been happy to shoulder the added responsibility, having worn the armband in Hungary and taken on a leadership role that fits a player long viewed as one of the dressing room’s standard-setters.
“I’ve been acting as a sort of third or second captain for years now. It’s a role I enjoy, one I feel very honoured and proud of. I’ve learned a lot, and I try to present my best image in the locker room and on the field, so that all my teammates feel comfortable.”
Federico Valverde’s praise for Bernardo Silva
Federico Valverde was every bit as glowing about Bernardo Silva, who made his Real Madrid debut against Ferencváros. The Portugal international has slotted straight into the group, and his new midfield partner could barely contain his enthusiasm.
“Bernardo is a magical player, and very funny and entertaining. Spectacular. Honestly, I’m really enjoying him. He’s a magical player every day. He’s truly a spectacular person, excellent, who has fit in very well with the whole team. He’s a fantastic player whom I’ve always admired, both as a rival and as a player. Having him with us today is a great joy.”
Silence on the Rodri question
The one subject Valverde would not touch was Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder who has reportedly turned down the Bernabéu. On Rodri’s reported move to Barcelona, the Uruguayan stayed diplomatically quiet — a sign the club would rather let the noise pass than feed it.
On the wider picture, Valverde was measured: “Very good. We’re trying to do what the manager wants, to put his ideas into practice. We’re missing a lot of players, but we’re improving little by little.” With key names still to return and the season fast approaching, Mourinho will take comfort that his on-pitch leader is already speaking his language inside Mourinho’s new-look dressing room.
